It was a well-deserved victory for Norris, who held the record for most podiums without a win (15), including eight second places, in 110 grand prix races, making the lovable British driver a fan favorite.
Even Verstappen, the three-time Formula 1 world champion for Red Bull, who hates losing and was denied a third consecutive victory in Miami by Norris, was one of the first to congratulate him. Norris was surrounded by his team, walked through the pit lane crowd, and was showered in champagne.
“It’s been a long wait, and I’m genuinely happy to be beaten by Lando today,” Verstappen said with a smile. “He definitely deserved it.
“Winning your first race is an amazing feeling. It’s always quite emotional. It reminds you of every day you’ve worked to achieve your dream of being on the podium,” added the Red Bull ace.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who visited the McLaren box before the race, was thrilled to support a winner. Norris later revealed that Trump congratulated him and considered himself Norris’s lucky charm.
“He saw me afterwards and came to congratulate me,” said Norris, who had told his grandmother before going to Miami that he would win a race. “He (Trump) said he was my lucky charm because it was my victory, but I don’t know if he will come to more races.”
“The celebration is in full swing in Somerset!” exclaimed Adam Norris to Sky Sports. “I’ve been to about 900 races in the last 16 years.
“As a father, it’s interesting to know how many hours of support you provide. I counted 350 weekends away from home and all the races on different weekends. It’s fantastic. I’m very happy for him,” added Mr. Norris.
Anthony Hamilton, another influential father in the success of his son, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, also sent a congratulatory message to Norris.
Although Norris had waited a long time for his first win, his wait was not the longest. Jenson Button, former Formula 1 world champion, needed 113 races before his first win, while Nico Rosberg needed 111 races. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez holds the record with 190 races before his first win, followed by Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz with 150 races, and Mark Webber with 130 races.
Norris was still finalizing his plans on how to celebrate his first win, but he was already thinking about a second win.
“It only happens once when you achieve your first win. Tonight will be a memorable night,” Norris said, confirming that team boss Zak Brown postponed the flight back home until Monday to allow for a proper celebration. “I’d like to think this is just the beginning, and now we are even more determined to have more success. Let’s stay focused and keep fighting.”
(Photo: Formula 1/Twitter)
